The Minister Of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mamoud said First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu leadership shines bright and is daily impacting the lives of Nigerians
In her birthday message to the first lady who clocks 63, the Minister of state, Prayed God that, “ May this new chapter bring you good health, happiness and continued success in your endeavors to make Nigeria a better Place”
She commended the First Lady for her dedication to the country. In her words “Your years of service and commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians particularly women and children is worth celebrating.
Dr Mariya Mamoud said based the First Lady’s impactful leadership, Nigerians look forward to “ the positive impact you will continue to mark on our beloved country as we moved to renew the hope of our People “
The minister wished Senatpr Oluremi Tinubu “ a fantastic birthday and a future filled with prosperity and joy
The Federal Government recently unveiled its plans to improve the welfare of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) employees, with the goal of fostering a more favorable work environment for the workforce and better working conditions that will increase workers’ overall productivity.
During a recent familiarization visit to the NRC’s headquarters in Ebute-Meta, Lagos, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’idu Alkali, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritize the implementation of a Presidential approval for an upward review of special allowances designated for Nigerian railway workers, according to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of Press & PR.
During his address, Alkali clarified the purpose of his visit, stating that, “The visit was to assess and evaluate the Corporation’s performance in terms of managerial coordination and the execution of existing rail infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on the Lagos-Ibadan and Kano-Maradi railway modernization endeavors.”
The Minister assured the NRC’s management of the unwavering support of the Ministry of Transportation in fulfilling its statutory responsibilities. He further noted that the Ministry would leverage bilateral and multilateral agreements to enhance trade and technology transfer, reflecting the importance of transportation in driving economic growth on a global scale.
However, he noted, “The familiarization tour of railway facilities and projects within Lagos was enlightening, although it uncovered various issues that require immediate executive action.”
Despite the positive developments, the Minister acknowledged that there were challenges within the railway system that required urgent executive action. These challenges include security threats and vandalism of critical infrastructure, issues that have been a concern for the NRC.
Additionally, he revealed the Ministry’s plans to expedite the repair of the single track for container transportation from Lagos to Kano within three months. Moreover, the Ministry is actively working on expanding the operational scope of the Kajola Rail Wagon Assembly Plant.
Fidet Okhiria, the Managing Director of NRC, conveyed his congratulations to Minister Alkali on behalf of the entire NRC staff and highlighted the challenges faced by the corporation, especially in dealing with security threats and infrastructure vandalism. He urged the Minister, drawing on his legislative experience, to prioritize railway modernization projects, ensuring their swift implementation for the benefit of all stakeholders.
The Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare and infrastructure of the Nigerian Railway Corporation marks a significant step forward in the development of the nation’s transportation sector, promising better working conditions and enhanced services for both passengers and stakeholders alike.
Nigeria’s Armed Forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and insurgency within the nation.
These ongoing military operations are a testament to the military’s dedication to national security interests and the protection of its citizens from the brutal violence of extremist groups.
This was made known in a release today September 14, 2023, to newsmen by Major General Edward Buba, Director, Defence Media Operations The report highlighted success recorded by the Armed forces across different Operations throughout the nation which are outlined as follows.
Troops engaged in Operation HADIN KAI (NORTH EAST) arrested suspected terrorist collaborators in various locations, including Borno and Yobe States. Ambushes and raids on suspected terrorist hideouts in Borno State’s Konduga and Gwoza LGAs yielded positive results, leading to the elimination of terrorists and the retrieval of arms and ammunitions. A remarkable haul of seized weaponry includes 17 AK47 rifles, 3 locally fabricated rifles, 3 locally made guns, a Beretta pistol, dane guns, various rounds of ammunition, magazines, petroleum products, vehicles, mobile phones, motorcycles, and other items. Additionally, 44 terrorists were neutralized, 21 were arrested, and 4 kidnapped hostages were successfully rescued.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL) carried out successful raids on criminal hideouts in Plateau State, leading to the neutralization and arrest of terrorists and suspected criminals. The operation resulted in the recovery of numerous arms and ammunitions, including AK47 rifles, pistols, locally fabricated rifles, dane guns, and magazines. Additionally, motorcycles were confiscated.In total, 16 terrorists were neutralized, 16 were arrested, and one kidnapped hostage was rescued during Operation SAFE HAVEN. These operations aimed to enhance security and peace in the Plateau State region.
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE conducted fighting patrol and arrested suspected terrorists in Guma LGA of Benue State. of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 15 terrorists, arrested 6 terrorists and rescued one kidnapped hostage. Troops also recovered 7 AK47 rifles, 4 pistols, 10 rounds of 7.62mm special and 3 empty magazines.
Troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST) rescued kidnapped hostages in Zamfara and Katsina States, leading to the arrest of terrorists’ collaborators. In Zamfara, a firefight resulted in the neutralization of terrorists, the rescue of kidnapped victims, and their safe return to their families.
Troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH neutralized and rescue kidnapped hostages at Igabi and Chikun LGAs of Kaduna State. Troops offensive actions resulted in the arrest of suspected terrorists collaborators in Mokwa LGA of Niger State.
Overall, troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH eliminated 17 terrorists, arrested 3 suspected terrorists and rescued 7 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 34 assorted weapons, 399 IED detonator primers, one vehicle and 2 motorcycles.
Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE(SOUTH SOUTH) maintained momentum against the activities of crude oil theft. Troops destroyed several illegal refining sites and recovered stolen products. Troops also raided criminal hideout in Tai LGA of Rivers State.
Overall, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE destroyed 21 dugout pits, 56 boats, 138 storage tanks, 14 vehicles, 235 cooking ovens, 6 pumping machine, 2 mobile phones, 89 illegal refining sites and the sum of N13,950. Troops also recovered about 1,205,950 litres of stolen crude oil, 452,910 litres of illegally refined AGO, 22,650 litres of PMS and 3000 litres of DPK, one tricycle and 15 assorted weapons. Troops also arrested 59 suspected oil thefts and other criminal elements. Troops of operation UDO KA offensive operations led to arrest of suspected criminals in Aba North and Owerri North of Abia and Imo States respectively.
In the conduct of operations, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralized 17 terrorists, arrested 11 suspected criminals and rescued 2 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 10 AK47 rifles, 5 dane guns, 7 pump action guns, 4 magazines and 34 cartridges. All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.
The Armed Forces didn’t limit their efforts to land operations alone; they conducted air recce and air interdiction missions over strategic locations to deter terrorist activities effectively. Of note is the revelation that some perpetrators of terrorism and insurgency are exploiting these activities for personal gain, particularly through illegal mining and other unlawful ventures.
The military remains vigilant in addressing these complex challenges, as achieving peace and security in Nigeria remains a top priority. In conclusion Major General Edward Buba reiterated that The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute and determined in their mission to secure the country, and the outcomes of these operations leave no doubt about their commitment to achieving peace and security for all Nigerians.
In a bid to enhance transportation and decongest the Lagos ports, the Federal Government has officially initiated the movement of cargo from the Lagos Port Complex in Apapa, Lagos State, to the Ibadan Dry Inland Container Port in Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo State.
This landmark development was inaugurated by the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Alkali, during his inaugural official tour of the Lagos-Ibadan rail corridor.
The Director of Press at the Ministry of Transportation, Henshaw Ogubike, announced this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, emphasizing the government’s commitment to streamlining port operations and reducing demurrages for shippers.
Sen. Alkali revealed that the operation would commence with the daily loading of 3 coaches of 30 wagons from the Apapa Ports to Ibadan. This initiative is part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to alleviate congestion at the ports and provide efficient transportation solutions.
Addressing the sustainability of the railway sector in the country, the Minister pledged that existing contracts would be diligently executed, with a focus on enhancing the transport sector. He also highlighted the removal of the fuel subsidy as a means to secure and make transportation more cost-effective.
Furthermore, Sen. Alkali inspected the Kajola Wagon Assembly Plant, the first of its kind in West Africa, built by the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility. This facility is expected to create employment opportunities for more than 500 youths.
While acknowledging the NRC’s past challenges with vandalism, Engr. Fidet Okhiria, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, assured that the NRC has acquired about 120 narrow gauge wagons and placed additional orders through the China Civil Engineering Construction Company to support government efforts in trade and port decongestion.
The Minister’s announcement aligns with the government’s commitment to revitalize the nation’s transportation infrastructure and promote economic growth. As the cargo haulage commences, it marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by the Lagos ports and promoting more efficient trade operations.
The coveted “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa” award has been given to Dr. Simon Adozi, a business strategist and real estate tycoon from Nigeria.
The creator of Adozillion Homes and Realty, a graduate of the Lagos Business School, was recognized with other Africans from various backgrounds who have worked to foster peace on the continent by utilizing their skills, influence, and resources.
Dr. Adozi was honored for making the “roll of honor” by Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, Project Director, Africa, for the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, who gave him the Certificate and the Portrait of Honour at a ceremony in Lagos.
According to him, the peace icons are Africans painstakingly selected from different backgrounds, who have used their talents, positions and resources to build and promote peace across the continent.
Amafibe noted that those who made the list include humanitarians, political leaders,activists, artistes, sportsmen,media personalities, religious leaders,trraditinal rulers as well as financial and agricultural experts, among others. “These are people who have dedicated their lives to promoting peace and justice in their communities, countries, and the world at large.
“As we honour these remarkable individuals, we are reminded of the importance of their work and the impact it has had on the world.
“We hope that their example will continue to inspire individuals and organisations around the world to work towards a more peaceful and just world for all,”he said.
“These peace icons include real estate stakeholders who work the humanitarians to provide safe space for homeless individuals.
“In this regard, Dr. Simon Adozi’s Real Estate Development Company has demonstrated proven capabilities in the provision of a wide variety of profitable Residential & Commercial properties out of sheer innovation and enmeshed in modern standards for the elite and continuously offering them property ownership and investment opportunities.
“Adozillion Homes brings to bear experience which cuts across property development, donstruction management, real estate investments and facility management,” he said.
In his remarks, Dr Adozi expressed delight over the recognition and pledged is unrelenting commitment of the Adozillion brand to Nigerians .
He noted that the honour was an indication that people were keenly watching his contribution to society, adding that he is inspired now than ever to do more.
Dr. Simon holds a bachelor’s degree in soil and water engineering and a second degree in entrepreneurship management from the Lagos Business School.
He started his Real Estate career in 2016 as a realtor, helping over 1,000 Real Estate enthusiasts purchase plots of land and build their dream houses, from design conceptualization to delivery of top-notch finishing.
He has bagged several awards and recognitions including Peace Achievers International Awards, Most efficient Real Estate Development company of the year 2022 by Betamedia, Real estate Personality of the year 2022 by MAYA Awards.
Other honours in his kitty include the prestigious 40-under-40 CEOs in Africa, Peace Achievers International Awards, African Youth Excellence Award, and the 100 Most Influential Youths in Africa, among others.
The Health Correspondent of Independent Television (ITV), Mr Joseph Kadiri has been elected as the President of the Association of Nigeria Health Journalists (ANHEJ).
Kadiri was elected for a two-year term after the association’s election, which was held on Tuesday, September 12, in Abuja.
Other officials elected were Ms Racheal Abujah of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) as Vice President and Mr Frank Ajufo of Vision FM as Secretary, Ms. Yecenu Sasetu of Kiss FM: Treasurer; Ms. Uche Ugochukwu of NTA: Financial Secretary; and Mr. Kazeem Biriowo of Tribune Newspapers as the post of Welfare/PRO.
Speaking on behalf of the newly elected officials, Kadiri thanked members for finding them worthy to serve the association just as he pledged that the new officers would work hard to take the association to greater heights.
The president maintained that members would have access to information that would help them to effectively discharge their responsibilities to their various organizations.
“We thank and appreciate you all for finding us worthy to lead you. We assure you that we shall be diligent in carrying out our responsibilities.
“We will work to ensure that you get prompt information to aid your reportage at all times.
“We humbly request that you give us your maximum support,” he appealed.
He, however, thanked the immediate past president of the association, Mr Hassan Zaggi, of The Authority Newspapers, and the former President, Mr Marcus Fatunmole of The ICIR, as well as the chairman of the electoral committee, Onyebuchi Ezigbo of Thisday Newspapers, towards ensuring a free, fair, and credible election.
Recently, a social media post about allegedly unlawful changes and inflation of some of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) contracts became popular.
The claims made in the social media post were looked into by our correspondent. The charges were shown to be inaccurate and misleading by the facts that reliable FCTA/FCDA sources provided.
Each of the following charges is addressed by our correspondent in detail: The Project referred to in Gaduwa is presumed to be the contract for the Emergency Rehabilitation/Improvement of Access Road to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control Laboratory in Gaduwa District. The contract was awarded to M/s CBC Global Civil & Building Construction Company Nigeria Limited at the sum of N2,493,389,942.88. As the name implies it was an emergency contract due to the Covid-19 Pandemic and the need to quickly access the facilities for testing and treatment of infected persons. The scope of work comprises, Roadworks, Surface Water Drainage, Culverts and River Training. It is 2.4km long asphaltic concrete road. The project was completed on schedule and payment was made in full. The assertions of the author is therefore false.
On the issues of the contracts awarded at 10 Billion naira and later jacked up to N119 billion, no such contract exists in FCDA. “Awarded Contract of N50 Billion later jacked up to N200 Billion” – FCTA/FCDA sources say this is strange to them and believed to be the figment of imagination of the writer.
“Award of contract of N6 Billion and later jacked up toN70 Billion”, Our sources in the FCTA/FCDA also revealed that they do not have such contract.
“Awarded Emergency Maintenance of Usman Dam at the cost of N9 Billion and paid in full without any BOQ and so many procurement infractions”. Our credible sources revealed categorically that it is not true. According to them, currently, the nature of works at the site demands emergency attention due to the fact that it can result to disruption of water supply to the city. More so some of the Eletro-mechanical components required will have to be imported, so the procurement process is ongoing. “But as we speak there is no payment yet on the works”, the source said.
“Left debt of over N1.2 Trillion to FCT without anything to show” – Our sources revealed that debts owed contractors working for the FCT Administration were debts accruing over a period of more than 20 years, spanning through several administrations and not wholly incurred during the last administration.
“Approval of green areas to residential houses and Converting Residential Houses in Wuse 2, Maitama Gana Street, Garki into Commercial in contrary to the Abuja Master Plan”. It was confirmed that the FCT / FCDA at no time condoled the abuse of the Master Plan. “However, if there is any infringement known to the Authority, necessary actions are always taken to correct such violations”.
A Civil society group, under the auspices of Pro-Impact Initiative has raised the alarm over what it termed, “ Calculated attempts to blackmail top Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) officials and derail Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike from repositioning Abuja”
The group pointed out that in less then two weeks over “three fabricated falsehoods” against key officials of the FCT administration has circulated widely on the social media with calls on the FCT to take actions based on the false and fake reports.
The Coordinator of the group, Dr Osamudiamen Isokpehi who briefed journalists over the weekend in Abuja said:” if those behind these acts are not traced , arrested and brought to justice, these criminals may go to any length to jeopardize the smooth administration of the FCT”
Dr Isokpehi noted “ First it was a fabricated lies against some Directors over a disputed land in Guzape district. A statement credited to nobody was circulated online calling for their sack by the FCT minister and quoting “Undisclosed sources”. It was discovered that the original documents of land was stolen from the owner and sold to someone who wanted to continue keeping the land even after owner discovered
“ Secondly the blackmailers went after the permanent Secretary, Mr Olusade Adesola by issuing a write up titled: ‘ WHY FCT PERM SEC MUST BE SACKED AND ARRESTED NOW’ credited to one ‘faceless’ Babalola Tajudeen calling on the minister to sack Permanent Secretary of the FCT Administration. The allegations over blotting the workforce , awarding multi-billion naira contracts and others were discovered to be completely false and misleading.
“Thirdly, on Friday 9th, September while the FCTA officials were preparing for Tuesday’s swearing in of mandate Secretaries by the ministers, a notorious Nine paragraph write credited to nobody was pushed into the social media lyiing that The minister had written to EFCC and ICPC asking them to invite and probe his predecessor, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello. Unlike the previous two fake news , the minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike this time issues a clear-worded press statement from his office debunking it as a lie”
Dr Isokpehi said “ we are convinced that Mr Wike who is also a victim of fake news on social media and twisted news in the conventional media won’t work with the report of the blackmailers. These same people we can tell you plainly would be the first to attack Mr Wike when he leave office.
“ Though one might not know the entire motive of these characters, two thing are certain; they want witch-hunt FCT top officials and derail the minister from focusing on repositioning the city for general good “
While we called on these characters to desist from Such acts and let the FCTA breathe, we called on the Police anti-cyber crime department to trace and arrest these agents of fake news who are currently directing their attacks on FCT administration’s top officials”
Dr Isokpehi appealed to residents of the FCT and Nigerians not to be quick at sharing fake and unverified news items. He expressed worry that “a statement typed on a plain sheet of paper, no letter head, signed by nobody and credited to nobody would be believed and so widely shared thus making falsehood looks exactly like the truth”
He, however, commended Barr Nyesom Wike for his proactiveness in administering Abuja he appealed to the staff to give him all the needed support to succeed.
Prof. Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has assured the Federal Government’s readiness to set the right course in achieving a quality healthcare system for Nigerians.
He made the statement during a three-day Ministerial Briefing hosted by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare from September 7th to September 9th, 2023 at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre in Abuja, which focuses on innovative ways and strategies to improve Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The Minister bemoaned the current status of healthcare delivery in the country, noting examples of health emergencies such as a medical officer who suffered injuries in an accident and died owing to an inability to obtain urgent attention, as well as frequent maternal mortality.
Pate hinted that: “these people depend on us and healthcare system to deliver on preventable interventions and rehabilitation for all the care they need and they are not getting it”. We are spending much more than Niger Republic, Ethiopia and Ghana yet we are not getting the result of what we are spending. There is something that is not right in terms of how we do what we do in the health sector, the urgency to change I think is what informed our President who gave this sector the mandate to deliver, as he wants this sector to be one sector with special breakthrough and innovations”.
The new strategies to be employed are intended to reverse poor health indices and provide an effective healthcare system that will improve the health standard of the people and reduce challenges faced by Nigerians in assessing health services, the Minister stated.
Similarly, the Minster of State, Dr. Tunji Alausa in his comment, said that “we have gone through many transitions, the retreat, strategic workshop and ministerial briefing. This is a listening session; we want to listen to the leadership of the Ministry of Health and see where things are. A lot of people have worked hard in the last years or decades, but if we are to be honest with ourselves, we are not there yet. This is not where the trend of healthcare we want for our citizens. This is year 2023 there are still a lot of things lacking in the healthcare system”.
“So today we will listen and then we will work collaboratively in the next few days, come together and decide the way forward on what we want to do in the next four years. It’s going to be a collaborative effort, by Saturday we all decide and gather together and list our agenda on where we are going, so we have a sync, we are doing the same thing and talking together” he added.
“President Bola Tinubu has made a commitment to citizens, he said several times that he was going to fix the health sector, and has given Pate and I the mandate to do everything that is humanly possible to fix the health sector for Nigerians and we will do it… a lot of people have worked so hard but for once let’s be honest with ourselves, we are still far from where we should be and that’s where we are beginning to work on” Alausa reiterated. Speaking further, Alausa noted that the Ministry of Health is deliberate and intentional about collaborations with stakeholders and agencies to achieve this mandate adding that “I am confident that we are going to have an amazing robust, fruitful, honest discussion with ourselves, we are going to listen and take everybody’s input, put it together and amalgamate everything together and come up with what will work for Nigerians”.
Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser on Health to the President, Dr. Salma Anas commented that under the renewed hope agenda for Nigerians, the Federal Government is determined to translate health policies formulated over the years into feasible actions and results to improve the health sector and impact lives positively.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom mni, in her remarks said, “in these challenging times, the role of our Ministry, and indeed each of the agencies and departments represented here, cannot be overstated. Our commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of every citizen is at the forefront of our mission. Today, we gather not only to share updates and progress but also to reaffirm our dedication to this noble cause”.
Vivianne Ihekweazu, the founder of Nigeria Health Watch, in her presentation titled the “Power of the possible in Nigeria’s Health Sector”, acknowledges the present challenging times and admonishes on the need to build confidence in Nigerians and donor agencies. She talked about making first impressions which would always form the platform for wider and essential narratives in the health sector.
The retreat promises to be an event of great significant, where distinguished leaders in the health sector will converge to exchange insight, collaborate on strategic initiatives and shape the future of our nation’s healthcare landscape.
The military’s nationwide counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations over the past three months have shown their determination to combat terrorist and other violent extremist groups, as well as those who aid and abet them.
Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja hinted that, during the period under review, offensive operations and air strikes were conducted to hit these groups and the terrorist where it hurts them most.
The statement reads in bits: ” Our activities have shown that the terrorists and their allies have suffered a sizable number of casualties. They will undoubtedly continue to suffer more casualties as time goes on. The reason they fight is because they have evolved into a more heinous group.
“They battle to maintain their illicit activity-related profits such as illegal mining, kidnapping, cattle rustling, illegal levies on fishing and farming communities and all other unholy forms of criminal inclinations.
“Our operations across the 6 geopolitical zones from June to August 2023 reveals that; we neutralized 814 terrorists and arrested 1,326 criminals. We arrested 42 kidnappers, 231 collaborators, 33 armed robbers, 80 cattle rustlers, 325 militias, 27 rails vandals, 73 gunrunners, 191 suspected oil thieves and rescued 721 kidnapped hostages. Additionally, 4,560 terrorist and their families surrendered to troops.
The statement further stated:”Troops recovered a total number of 501 weapons, 3,577 livestock, 3,269 assorted kinds of ammunition and 674 other equipment. The breakdown of these arms and ammunition is as follows; 117 AK47 rifle, one AK49 rifle, 5 revolver, 28 fabricated rifles, 11 fabricated pistols, 57 dane guns, 23 pistols, 24 pump action guns, 3 FN rifles, 3 GPMGs, one double barrel gun, one barreta pistol, one G3 rifle, 2 HK21 rifles one IED, 123 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 2,008 rounds of 7.62mm special, 30 rounds of 7.62mm x 39mm, 512 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm, 190 rounds of 5.5mm, 39 rounds of 9mm, 29 rounds of PKM, and 19 cartridges. Troops equally recovered: one RPG tube, 3 hand grenades, one locally made hand grenade, one locally made bomb, 2 rifle butts, one AK47 barrel, one GMPG barrel, 2 MG links, 98 AK47 magazines, 2 G3 magazines, 2 FN magazines, 2 PKT magazines, 2 LMG magazines, 2 tear gas launchers, one bullet proof vest, 49 vehicles, 213 motorcycles, 48 bicycles, 69 mobile phones, 5 boafeng radios, 4 woodland camouflages, 2 boots, 74 knives, 71 handsets, 11 laptops, 13 steering rods and pumps, 45 machetes and 25 jack knives.
“Furthermore, troops recovered 213 motorcycle, 69 mobile phones, one bicycle, 10 machete and a pair of camouflage. Troops operations in South South geopolitical zone resulted in the arrest of the following; 6,652,250 litres of stolen crude oil, 3,558,325 litres of illegally refined AGO, 288,650 litres of DPK and 65,600 PMS. All amounting to an estimated sum of N4 billion denied to the oil thieves.
“The armed forces will continue to apply strong military pressure on groups undermining the national security of the country. It is clear that, the terrorists and their cohorts cannot win in the face of ongoing military pressure against them”.
“Accordingly, the terrorists and their cohorts are encouraged to drop their arms and rejoin society to provide a better life for themselves and their children. They risk annihilation if they fail to do so. Nigerians need to know that, we are in this together. The military is with you. The military will work tirelessly to ensure your safety and security. Importantly, the trust and cooperation from supportive groups being witnessed today is unprecedented. The inputs from these groups is making a difference in our operations. Citizens are encouraged to Know Something, Say Something and we will do something about it”.
